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Pakistan Karakoram Highway Expedition
Pakistan
Eighth Bastion is a boutique heritage hotel, set within the Fort Cochin, at the northern tip of Cochin peninsula on India’s southwestern coast. Operated by CGH Earth group, which owns a chain of eco-friendly hotels in South India, the hotel derives its name from the Dutch East India Company’s forts which had Seven Bastions; an architectural design they followed from Indian coast to the straits of Sumatra where they also had their presence.
Set in the heart of Fort Kochi, the Eighth Bastion features just 19 rooms that are elegantly decorated in minimalist style with many overlooking the Arabian Sea. All the rooms are different in size and individually decorated, some featuring shower cubicles and others sunken bath tubs. Surrounded by high walls, this small chic property retains an intimate atmosphere and effortlessly combines contemporary and colonial styles. There are no TVs but each floor has a sitting area.
The East Indies is the main restaurant at the Eighth Bastion, located on the ground floor and facing out into the hotel's courtyard with indoor and outdoor seating. The menu is a fusion of Indo-Dutch cuisine with influences from Asia, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and Kerala itself. Interesting sites in the surrounds include the Dutch Palace, the Jewish quarter, 16th-century churches, the fish market and taking pictures of Chinese fishing nets. Back at the hotel there is a swimming pool with sun loungers.
Amenities
Bar/PubCoffee ShopConciergeCribs/Infant Beds AvailableDisabled FacilitiesGardenLibraryMultilingual StaffOutdoor PoolRestaurantSafety Deposit BoxesStay Eighth Bastion features just 19 rooms. Each of the rooms are distinct in their layout and ambience, some have twin or double beds and all rooms have different size balconies. Inside the décor is minimalism in style with contemporary architecture and chic, retro elements. Historical maps and nautical paintings decorate the walls and luxurious bathrooms are furnished with bathtubs or rain showers or both. Most rooms have a furnished patio or balcony overlooking the estate.
ChildCare Families with children are welcome to stay at Eighth Bastion but there are no specific facilities available for children. However, babysitting service can be arranged, on request.
Dine Cuisine at the Eighth Bastion’s the East Indies Restaurant is a fusion of South Indian, Sri Lankan and Indonesian dishes. The menu is designed after much research and careful selection of recipes which have witnessed Dutch influence from the early 1600s. Meals are prepared by expert local chefs with locally sourced fresh spices and ingredients. Take the ‘Dutch Route’, a specially prepared menu of Sumatran caramelised curry with rice or Sri Lankan Dutch Burgher dish of aubergine.
Relax The Eighth Bastion resort is located within Fort Cochin which allows for leisurely walks with views over the sea. Return to the hotel and relax in the swimming pool lined with sun loungers and shaded by tall trees. There is also a bar and a tea lounge. Message services can be arranged on request.
Experience Eighth Bastion is perfectly positioned for exploring Fort Cochin, a little Dutch-influenced corner, doused with European heritage. Located close to where the locals use the famous Chinese fishing nets, known as Cheenavala, it forms a great site for taking pictures. The Fort can be explored either by bicycle provided by the hotel, rickshaw, foot or in your vehicle. We recommend taking a bike ride with a map and explore its by-lanes and bazaars, meet locals and take in the daily local life.
Location Eighth Bastion is located within the colonial Fort Cochin, within cycling distance of the sights of the fort.
Getting there Fly to Cochin, followed by a 1.5-hour drive from the airport to the hotel.
When to go Isolated from much of India by the Western Ghats, the climate of Kerala & Karnataka is tropical. The best time to visit is from January through to April. Summer is hot and humid; the monsoon season arrives in early June and lasts till August. While September can be dry and humid. There can be a little rain in October and November, cooling off around December and lasting until February.
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